Looking for a quick and easy getaway before the kids go back to school? Whether you're planning a quick escape from Riyadh or a family visit from Jeddah, Kuwait’s updated policy makes it simpler than ever to explore the country’s rich heritage, modern attractions, and warm hospitality.
Kuwait has officially launched a visa-on-arrival policy for Saudi locals and residents in addition to expatriates and locals living in the wider GCC region. The announcement, made on August 6, 2025, by First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, marks a significant shift in Kuwait’s border regulations and travel accessibility.
Under the new directive, Ministerial Decision No. 1386 of 2025, Saudi nationals and expatriates residing in Saudi Arabia with valid residency permits of at least six months can now obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at any Kuwaiti airport or land border. This new visa policy replaces a 2008 regulation that previously required pre-approval for foreign residents from other Gulf states, streamlining the process and aligning Kuwait’s entry policies with its GCC neighbours.
This policy change is part of Kuwait’s broader effort to modernise its immigration system and boost tourism. It follows Decree Law No. 114 of 2024, which aims to simplify entry procedures for foreigners and strengthen ties with neighbouring Gulf states. By joining countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia in offering visa-on-arrival options for GCC residents, Kuwait is positioning itself as a more accessible destination for regional travellers.
Who’s Eligible?
Importantly, the policy applies regardless of the traveler’s nationality, meaning Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Egyptian, and other expat communities residing in Saudi Arabia with a correct and valid visa, can now enter Kuwait more easily for short visits, holidays, or business trips.
The visa-on-arrival is available to:
- Saudi citizens and passport holders
- Expatriates living in Saudi Arabia (and other GCC countries) with a valid residency permit of six months or more
What You Need at the Border
No prior application, embassy visit, or online registration is required. Visitors simply arrive at the border or airport and receive their visa on the spot
To obtain the visa-on-arrival, travellers must present:
- A valid passport
- A GCC residency permit with at least six months remaining
- Proof of tourism-related travel (e.g., hotel booking or return ticket)
